Afghanistan: April 20 Kabul attack declared over /update 2

Event

An attack launched by three to four assailants on the Ministry of Communication building in the PD2 area of Kabul on Saturday, April 20, was declared over by late afternoon (local time), with all attackers reportedly shot dead by police. Unconfirmed reports indicate that seven people (civilians and security personnel) were killed in the attack, while eight more people were reportedly wounded. A security cordon was established around the area following the incident. The Taliban has issued a statement denying any involvement in the attack; no group has yet claimed responsibility. 

Context

Taliban and Islamic State (IS) militants launch regular attacks on government personnel, security forces, and civilians in Afghanistan, although Kabul has experienced a period of relative calm in recent months. Such assaults are, in part, intended to undermine the perceived capacity of Afghan National Security Forces (ANSF) - and the Afghan government more broadly - to adequately provide security in the wake of the withdrawal of most US-led NATO forces from the country.

Advice

Individuals in Kabul are advised to monitor developments to the situation, avoid the area surrounding the attack, and adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities or their home governments.

The security environment in Afghanistan remains complex. Professional security advice and support should be sought prior to travel.